ABOUT US
Supporting Genuine Cowichan Knitting
Coast Salish Resilience and Cultural Identity Are Present in Every Cowichan Sweater.
OUR PURPOSE
Indigenous Craft, Ethical Fashion
Every genuine Cowichan sweater supports Indigenous artisans, celebrates their craft, and fortifies the values of responsible consumption. It’s not just luxury fashion, it’s fashion with integrity.
Why buy authentic?
Invest in Unique Elegance
Knit Cowichan sweaters—more than fashion, they’re investments of timeless style and rarity. Wearing one, you adorn a blend of culture, history, and appreciating craftsmanship.
01.
The True Value of Craftsmanship
With each Knit Cowichan sweater purchase, you honor artisan skill, support fair wages, uphold heritage, and contribute uplifting communities.
02.
Indigenous Art is not a Commodity
Choose authenticity over imitation. Each genuine Cowichan sweater bolsters Indigenous artisans, celebrates craftsmanship, and embodies responsible consumption.
03.
Be a Part of Change
Stand against cultural appropriation—support Indigenous knitters, foster ethical practices, enrich understanding. Wear your Cowichan sweater as a symbol of this meaningful movement.
Authenticity
Trust in Every Stitch of Authentic Cowichan Sweaters
Cowichan sweaters, passed down through Indigenous generations, oppose fake “Cowichan-style” imitations. Choosing these sustainable treasures aligns luxury fashion with social responsibility.
Knitters
The Threads of Time
The Cowichan sweater is more than just a garment—it’s a canvas narrating the tales of the Coast Salish people. From ancestral legends to personal stories, every pattern is shaped by its knitter. Learn more about the rich tapestry woven into every piece.
OUR BACKGROUND
Empowering Indigenous Communities
Knit, initiated by the Victoria Native Friendship Centre (VNFC) in October 2023, is led by Ron Rice – Wush’q MGC, the Executive Director of VNFC. A member of Cowichan Tribes, he has dedicated over 25 years to Indigenous community leadership, innovation, and volunteering.
OUR SUPPORT
Victoria Native Friendship Centre
VNFC, an Indigenous-led charitable non-profit in Southern Vancouver Island, BC, operates on Lək̓ ʷəŋən People’s territory, known as the Songhees & Xwsepsum today. With 140+ dedicated staff, VNFC offers 75+ programs to strengthen the well-being of urban Indigenous individuals, families, and communities, providing a sense of wellness and belonging.
For over 52 years, the VNFC has been a vital Indigenous not-for-profit resource, offering numerous programs, including full daycare, early childhood development, family violence prevention, law and health services, mental health and addiction support, education and entrepreneurial programs, youth services, food security, housing, housing support, Elder programs, Indigenous library, food and medicine garden, a community kitchen, and cultural and arts events.
FAQs
Can you explain the price point and structure?
Indigenous knitters of Cowichan sweaters purchase their wool at retail prices, which can cost upwards of $100 per sweater. It can take up to 40 hours to knit a single sweater. Traditionally, knitters have been paid between $120-$200 per sweater by local tourist shops, which translates to $1-3/hr above cost. Knit was created to rectify this undercompensation. Knitters receive the majority of proceeds from each sweater sale ($500). The remaining funds are used to operate the Knit website, staff, and services through the Victoria Native Friendship Centre.
Are all of the knitters Indigenous?
Yes, all of our knitters are Indigenous artisans dedicated to preserving their cultural heritage through their craft.
Do the sweaters have a warranty?
Every Knit sweater comes with a lifetime guarantee. We offer free repairs for eligible damages, including fraying, wear due to use, and seam integrity issues. Post-purchase staining and accidental damage are not covered. For more details, see our Returns and Exchanges policy or email knit.support@vnfc.ca to start the repair process.